Chuck Schnabel

January 31, 2011

What’s your current position at the brewery and how did you get started in the craft brewing industry?

I am owner and head brewer of Quarry Brewing LLC [in Butte, Mont.] I got started, like so many others, in homebrewing. I liked it so much that I invested in a homebrewing supply shop. This was successful enough to lead to a position as a brewer for Big Horn Brewing in Lakewood, Wash. Eventually I saw the opportunity to start my own brewery back in my home state of Montana and have been here since.

What’s new at Quarry?

Currently we are ramping up production and trying to expand our distribution base around the state. We are also looking to hire some new employees in all departments as business increases.

What’s the best part of being a part of the craft brewing community?

The camaraderie between breweries is one of the best things about the craft brewing community. Even among competing breweries, there is a sense that we’re all in it together. This is really hard to find in almost any other industry.

What do you like to do in your time away from the brewery?

When I do get an occasional lull in the action, I like to spend time with my family. We like to travel around to check out other breweries when we can.

What’s your favorite food and beer pairing?

If I had to choose, I’d say it’s hard to beat a good stout with a fresh cheesecake.

What’s your biggest accomplishment unrelated to your job?

Definitely my family. I have two wonderful kids, a son and a daughter, and am proud to say I have been married to my wife for 18 years now.

What’s your favorite beer that your brewery does not produce?

It’s too hard to pick just one. My top two are Avery’s White Rascal and St. Sebastian’s Golden Ale.

What’s the most memorable travel destination at which you’ve had a chance to sample the local beer?

McMenamins Edgefield in Gresham/Troutdale, Ore. We had a great time at the resort. The beer was excellent and I really enjoyed the fact that everything was included. There was always something new to do, from sampling beer and eating at one of several restaurants, to watching movies in their theater and just relaxing. We never got bored all weekend, and didn’t have to drive anywhere or worry about getting back to the hotel.

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